Accident Summary
The pilot reported a normal acceleration and run during takeoff. After becoming airborne, the airplane uncharacteristically failed to produce additional RPMs. The pilot determined that a return to the airport was necessary and initiated a left turn to crosswind while lowering an additional 10 degrees of flaps. The pilot noted that he was near minimum controllable airspeed and began a slow descent. He turned the airplane from crosswind to aim back toward the center of the airport. As he rolled level, the airspeed indicator showed 40 miles per hour, which he maintained in a stable descent down to touchdown.
Approximately 20 feet above the ground, the pilot pulled back slightly on the yoke to flare. The right wing dropped, and the airplane impacted the ground, bounced, and came to rest inverted.
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine revealed that the number 2 cylinder exhaust valve was stuck in the open position. No other anomalies with the airplane were found.
Additional Information
The density altitude at the time of the accident was 8,133 feet. The pilot reported takeoff winds as 250 degrees at 8 knots. An examination of the engine logbook showed that 9 months earlier, the number 2 cylinder exhaust valve had been found stuck open after an aborted takeoff. The valve was unstuck, and an engine run and test flight were conducted. From that incident to the accident, the airplane logged approximately 2 hours total time.